Multiple sclerosis awareness campaign: 150,000 beneficiaries in the Eastern Province
The Arfa Multiple Sclerosis Association achieved a remarkable milestone with the conclusion of its "Be Strong for Yourself" awareness campaign, successfully reaching approximately 150,000 beneficiaries by the end of May. This initiative is part of ongoing efforts to raise awareness about multiple sclerosis in the Eastern Province, highlighting this chronic neurological disease and contributing to providing moral, medical, and psychological support to those affected and their families, while also helping them overcome the challenges they face in their daily lives.
Expanding awareness of multiple sclerosis in Eastern cities
The campaign included extensive field visits covering several major cities in the Eastern Province, including Al-Khobar, Qatif, Al-Ahsa, and Hafr Al-Batin. The activities were not limited to a physical presence in shopping malls and public spaces, but extended to the Eastern Province's air and land entry points, helping to deliver awareness messages to travelers and visitors. This field activity coincided with a large-scale digital campaign across social media platforms to ensure that accurate medical information reached the widest possible segment of society and to correct misconceptions about the disease.
Innovative interactive corners to simulate patient suffering
The campaign was distinguished by its use of innovative and unconventional awareness methods to attract the public and deepen its psychological and social impact. Among the most prominent of these methods was the "Experience My Senses" corner, an interactive space designed to immerse healthy individuals in a realistic simulation of the motor, visual, and numbness challenges faced daily by multiple sclerosis patients. The association also utilized advanced screens to display visual materials and reliable medical content, in addition to providing recreational and educational spaces for families and children to simplify health concepts and instill values of community support from a young age.
Historical context and growing importance of the Arfa Association
The Arfa Multiple Sclerosis Association was founded to be a beacon of hope for those living with multiple sclerosis in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Since its inception, it has been committed to providing high-quality programs aligned with the Kingdom's Vision 2030, which aims to enhance quality of life and develop the non-profit sector. Multiple sclerosis is an autoimmune disease that affects the central nervous system and is often diagnosed in young adulthood. This makes early awareness crucial for reducing complications and helping patients cope positively with the disease. The "Be Strong for Yourself" campaign is part of a series of annual initiatives designed to bridge the knowledge gap surrounding the disease and provide comprehensive support to those living with it.
A future vision and integration of national efforts
In this context, Dr. Anas Al-Duhailan, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Arfa Association, affirmed that reaching 150,000 beneficiaries is a fundamental pillar in correcting misconceptions within society and expanding the scope of medical knowledge. He indicated that the association is committed to developing empowerment programs that help those affected overcome health and social obstacles and accelerate their positive integration into society. Al-Duhailan also commended the combined efforts of the government and private sectors, as well as the volunteer teams, who contributed to the campaign's success. He emphasized the continuation of service initiatives throughout the year to serve beneficiaries, alleviate their suffering, and achieve a sustainable positive impact at both the local and regional levels.
